Letters from Blackett to his parents, during the Crimean campaign. The letters illustrate his patriotism and pride in his profession, combined with a critical attitude to mismanagement in the field and by politicians at home. He was ambitious for promotion, and willing to use his family's money and social influence to achieve it. He evidently enjoyed army life, took an active interest in his brothers' careers, had a hard-headed attitude towards matrimony, and a great affection for his dog 'Todger'